The Last Days of Liz Truss (Rehearsed Reading), White Bear Theatre Review

Written by Bronagh for Theatre & Tonic

Disclaimer: Gifted tickets in exchange for an honest review.

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Liz Truss’ Prime Minister-ship is a bit of an elephant in the room. It was an odd forty four days which, to be honest, I sometimes forget happened. Fortunately for me, Greg Wilkinson has written The Last Days of Liz Truss, a tragic-comic look back on Liz Truss’ career. Performed by Emma Wilkinson Wright, this is one show that is guaranteed to make you ponder the state of British politics, make you laugh and also make you wonder whether the cheese you’re eating has been imported. 

The Last Days of Liz Truss is set on Liz’s last day in Number 10, and she takes a look back on her life and career. From a stroppy school girl not wanting to be called Mary, to Foreign Secretary, to some bizarre speeches and, of course, to Prime Minister. Emma plays every role, swapping from playing Liz to government advisors and various politicians, including a very funny take on Jacob Rees Mogg. Emma switches between roles flawlessly, every accent and mannerism mastered. This is the third show I’ve seen Emma in, and she truly blows me away each time.

I’ve only seen one rehearsed reading before, and unfortunately, I struggled with it. The story itself just didn’t gel with me, and I found watching slightly awkward. However, I can easily say that The Last Days of Liz Truss was a fun, easy watch with lots of laughs. I barely registered that Emma had the script in hand throughout, and the whole thing did feel very much like a ‘performance’ as opposed to a rehearsed reading. 

The Last Days of Liz Truss encompasses the ‘human’ side to Liz Truss too. Emma captures the emotion so well, anything from the buzz at the thought of becoming Prime Minister to the anxiety and feelings of being overwhelmed. No matter what you think of her as a politician or a person, it’s easy to forget that Liz is actually a human who undoubtedly did go through a rollercoaster of emotions!

Only one criticism from me and no way a detrimental one… there was no reference to the famous Liz vs Lettuce! I was waiting for this, and just know that this would have been delivered in an extremely funny way by Emma.

Overall I really enjoyed The Last Days of Liz Truss, and I’m so glad I’ve been able to see it in the early stages of development. Although the White Bear is a little gem, I can totally visualise this in a bigger setting. It also works really well as a one person show, really showcasing Emma’s talent. Keep an eye out for this one – truly not one to be missed!